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E-Waste Knowledge

New research from e-waste recycling service Techcollect suggests that a lack of knowledge is a key factor exacerbating the impact the disposal of expired tech products has on our environment. The survey of 1000 Australians found that while 95.7% of respondents believed that e-waste recycling was important, 45% admitted that they do not recycle their e-waste. 80.7% of respondents said they place more importance on recycling household waste than on recycling e-waste.

The survey found that the biggest hurdles to recycling e-waste for respondents were “I’m not sure where to start” (46%) and “I’m worried about my personal data getting into the wrong hands” (38.7%).Although data security is a legitimate concern it is a relatively simple process to remove personal data from your devices.The manufacturer should be able to provide you with information on how to wipe the data off your devices or failing that the internet is a great resource.

An important priority for the Scheme (National Television and Computer Recycling Scheme) is to educate the public to understand the important role we all play in responsible e-waste recycling. In the digital age where technology consumption is at an all-time high, this has never been more prevalent.” Carmel Dollisson, CEO of TechCollect

The survey also found that 43% of respondents left their e-waste on the side of the road for curb side pick-up.However, this provides no guarantee that tech products will be comprehensively recycled.Only donating your expired tech to an e-waste recycling service ensures that it’s components will be fully reused and re-purposed.

“Dumping your e-waste on the nature strip can be hazardous to the environment – most people don’t realise that kerbside collections don’t necessarily guarantee that the product won’t end up in landfill” Carmel Dollisson, CEO of TechCollect

Furthermore, the research found that 24% of respondents were holding onto old technology out of fear that they may need it again in the future.These people need to let go…